Programs

Indianapolis Campus

Master of Public Affairs Joint Degree Programs

Master of Public Affairs–Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies

The combined Master of Public Affairs with a concentration in nonprofit management and Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies enables a student to take a sequence of courses leading to the receipt of both degrees. This joint degree program focuses on the history, culture, and values of philanthropy as well as the managerial frameworks of public service and quasi-governmental institutions.

Application and Admission

To participate in the joint degree program, students must apply and be accepted into both the Master of Public Affairs program and the Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies program. Most students will apply for admission to both programs simultaneously. However, if admitted to one program first, the student should submit an application for admission to the other program before completing 24 credit hours toward the first program.

Academic Standing

Grade point averages for the programs are computed separately. To continue in the program, the student must meet the academic standards in each school. A student failing in one school but meeting academic standards in the other school may complete work for the degree in the school in which he or she is able to meet the standards. Such completion must be upon the same conditions as required of regular (noncombination) degree candidates. Students are eligible for honors in each school based on the criteria of each school.

Program Advisors

Students enrolled in the combined programs are assigned co-advisors; one from each school. The co-advisors are responsible for reviewing each semester’s progress to assure attainment of educational objectives. The co-advisors also help students resolve scheduling problems that might develop as a result of the combined program.

Program Requirements

(60 credit hours) The following degree requirements are required of all students admitted to the program.

Master of Public Affairs Requirements

(36 credit hours) Students are required to complete 36 credit hours of SPEA courses and to satisfy all requirements for the joint degree.

Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies Requirements
(24 credit hours) Students are required to complete 24 credit hours in philanthropic degree courses and satisfy all requirements for the Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies degree.